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This listing is for a vintage Selmer (Paris) neck for a Mark VI alto saxophone that is fitted with a Varitone pickup and includes the Varitone control box. Contact microphone systems like this were popular in the 1960's and 70's, and Selmer jumped on the bandwagon via a partnership with Varitone. There were several different variations on a theme offered. This one, obviously, has the mounting for the microphone pickup built onto the neck. This is not an aftermarket modification! This is how this neck came from the factory. I got this package as a standalone item, not with a horn. My guess is that this neck was purchased as a second neck to go with someone's Mark VI and was later separated from that horn because there is no serial number on the neck itself. It is definitely a Mark VI neck though, and is most likely from the late 1960's or early 70's.
The neck itself is in very good condition. It has not been pulled down or otherwise damaged. It has typical minor scuffs and scratches, but the lacquer is almost fully intact and is original. The cork is a bit compressed, so that could probably stand to be replaced, along with the octave key pad, but other than that it is in great shape. I tried it on my 58' Mark VI and it fit perfectly and played great. Of course, as with any replacement neck, it might need professional 'fitting' to your horn for a perfect airtight seal. As you'll notice, it has an additional 'post' on the side of the neck, which is actually a guide/cradle for the microphone wire. This is another sign of the Varitone being factory original. Incidentally, the neck can be used without the microphone. You would just need to have a plug made, which any instrument repair tech should be able to do for just a few bucks. That way you don't need to have the mic cord dangling about when you aren't using it.
The microphone and control box appear to be both be in very good shape. The mic pickup has a bit of paint chipped off, and a small crack in the covering of the wire (but the wire itself does not appear to be cracked. I plugged it into a small amp using a 1/8 to 1/4 inch adapter and confirmed that the microphone is working. As for the control unit, unfortunately I don't have any way to test it. It has a weird output connection, which I think is proprietary to the Selmer Varitone amplifier. Unfortunately I did not get the amp with this package. I would imagine that it could be modified by someone knowledgeable about electronics, but I myself don't have a clue about that stuff. Like I said, it looks to be in good condition, except for maybe some light corrosion on the output connector. The Control box allows you to adjust brightness, add tremolo, adjust echo, and split the tone at octaves. In all honesty, you can do much more with modern pedals, but this is more an effect to be appreciated for its historical importance. It was certainly cutting edge when it was released!
The neck and box comes with their original Selmer (faux?) leather carrying case. It shows minor interior wear, but is in overall great condition.
This is a really rare item. Most people had these removed and discarded them as technology improved, but there is increasing interest in them as vintage Selmer products become more collectible. This is a great deal considering a Mark VI replacement neck alone can sell for upwards of $1000 or more.
Please feel free to email me with any questions.
Thanks again for looking!